The use of stem cells, especially embryonic stem cells, in regenerative applications, is still very hotly contested on moral grounds. This makes it very difficult to proceed at full steam. Some of the ALS web sites in the states can get very heated up over the issue.

Here, (in Canada) last year, there was a concerted effort put in place to try and influence our MP's to vote in favour of legislation that would allow the use of embyonic stem cells in medical research. The law passed the Lower House in October and has been sent to the Senate for approval. If it goes through there may be a surge in activity in the research community!